The Come Home Initiative

The coronavirus pandemic has had a deep effect on parishes. The number of people coming to church to access the sacraments and the grace they offer has diminished. Habits have been broken during the pandemic and many have drifted from practice. 

Traditionally, Christmas Masses see an increase in attendance where families or individuals attend as part of an annual custom. Historically, many churches have used this opportunity well.

This Advent, the Agency for Evangelisation and Catechesis is seeking to help parishes, in the Archdiocese, make the most of this opportunity through our COME HOME initiative.

COME HOME is for those who have drifted from practice, or those who have experienced a curiosity regarding matters of faith. The resources provided include:

• Invitation Cards (for distribution by parishioners to interested friends or those who have drifted from practice)

• Copies of the Ultimate Relationship Booklet for distribution at Christmas Masses

• Webinars on preaching on the themes in the Ultimate Relationship booklet (kerygma, relationship and conversion) during Advent

• Help sheets for an evangelising welcome ministry

• Videos for evangelising courses (Sycamore, Alpha, Discovery etc) that can be offered in the early part of 2022 to capitalise on interest

• A webpage on the Agency website with parish support information

• A webpage on the diocesan website for interested individuals with links to the directory for parishes.

Please keep COME HOME in your prayers this Christmas and invite those you know and love to come home.